The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County is a non-profit charitable organization based in Chester County, PA. Our mission is to ensure the perpetual preservation and stewardship of open space, natural resources, historic sites, and working agricultural lands throughout southern Chester County.

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Monday, June 24, 2013

Paddling the Brandywine

Beautiful morning on the Brandywine River.

TLC and friends explored the Brandywine River this past Saturday with Environmental Educational Consultant, Vivian Williams. Our group of eleven began the adventure at the Brandywine River Museum, and paddled down stream for an hour and a half until we reached Point Lookout Beach where Vivian awaited with lunch! The Point Lookout Beach is along the Brandywine at the home of Jamie Wyeth.

After the delicious subs from The Landenberg Store, our group examined life in the river. Mayfly, stonefly, water penny, and caddisfly nymphs were plentiful. Unique findings included, adult mayflies, adult stoneflies, caddisfly casings, and fresh water mussel shells.

Vivian demonstrated the proper techniques for collecting and handling these delicate macro invertebrates. As a group we determined the Brandywine River possessed macro invertebrate species that indicate a healthy stream quality. Participants are now able to conduct small stream surveys to determine water quality in their own backyard.